JEFFERSON CITY – Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft concluded his fifth consecutive year visiting each of Missouri’s 114 counties during a visit to Howell County on Tuesday, November 30.
“I’ve made it a priority, every year, to personally visit each county in the state to talk with Missourians; from county officials to students, business owners to farmers.” said Ashcroft. “Missouri is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. It’s a privilege to represent the hard-working people of our state.”
Ashcroft, on Tuesday, visited schools and spoke to students in Ozark and Howell Counties to close out his yearly goal of visiting each county. He was joined by Rep. Travis Smith during his visit to Gainesville Elementary and Rep. David Evans at West Plains Middle School. Ashcroft has visited many schools, meeting hundreds of students during this fall school year speaking about civics, leadership and state government.
As chief election officer for the state, Ashcroft met with county clerks and other local election officials throughout Missouri. “I swore an oath to fairly administer Missouri’s elections. I believe maintaining good relationships with our local election officials is key to running successful elections in our state,” Ashcroft said.
In 2021 Secretary Ashcroft was able to assist many public libraries in Missouri by awarding federal and state funds through the State Library. This year he presented grant checks and toured dozens of libraries throughout the state administering over $1.5 million – over $9 million in the last 5 years. “Libraries actualize potential,” Ashcroft said. “Our public libraries are vital to our communities, they help all of us. These funds help our libraries to continue offering key services and expanding programs for patrons.”
Ashcroft toured cattle ranches, corporate farms, creameries and other agribusinesses promoting economic development and the Business Services Division within his office. The secretary said, “Agriculture is the backbone of our state – it exemplifies core virtues like determination, hard work, innovation; it builds character and self-worth and it promotes family values.”
“From Atchison to Pemiscot, McDonald to Clark, Missouri is a beautiful state. I love visiting every corner and talking with Missourians about ways to make the state even better – that’s the best part of my job,” added Ashcroft.